FDLMESH.FOND DU LAC AREA MESHCORE

YOUR FIRST CONNECTION

Start small.
Help build something bigger.

A small radio lets your phone send short messages over the air. Choose a personal setup below—or explore an outdoor radio that helps carry messages for others.

Prices checked September 16, 2026 · USD · Itemized equipment lists below ↓

New here? Start with A, B or C.

These connect to a phone you already own. You’ll need computer access for setup and another reachable participant for a conversation. Plan D helps relay messages; it is not a personal messaging kit.

PLAN A · PERSONAL MESSAGING

A little radio.
A first connection.

Try short messages from a dry indoor spot. This is the lowest-cost complete desk setup here.

$45–60Estimated delivered budget

$29.89 required hardware subtotal · USD

QtyExact equipmentReputable sellerPrice
1XIAO ESP32S3 + Wio-SX1262 kit with 3D case, SKU 113110064; 868–915 MHz antennaSeeed Studio ↗$18.99
1USB-A to USB-C data cable, approx. 1 mAdafruit #4474 ↗$4.95
15 V / 1 A USB-A wall supply, US plugAdafruit #501 ↗$5.95

What’s included

Radio boards, 3D-printed case and 2 dBi external antenna are in the Seeed kit. The cable and wall supply are separate purchases included in this total.

What you still need

Your compatible smartphone, access to a computer with a USB-A port for firmware installation, Internet for setup, and a nearby participant or reachable repeater. No battery is included. A USB-C-only computer also needs a compatible data adapter/cable; allow $10–15 extra.

Optional upgrades & setup details

Optional upgrades

For portable use, choose Plan C instead. A USB power bank is optional, but its low-current behavior must suit the radio; it is not included or required for this desk setup.

After it arrives

Install the Seeed Studio Xiao S3 Wio Bluetooth Companion build, then pair and apply the ATW settings. It ships as a Meshtastic kit; changing the radio frequency alone does not make it MeshCore.

Delivered range allows for estimated standard shipping and sales tax. It is not a checkout quote. Existing phone/computer, tools and site work are excluded as described above.

PLAN B · PERSONAL MESSAGING

A few parts.
A useful skill.

Assemble a modular radio on your desk. A good fit if you enjoy seeing how things work.

$70–85Estimated delivered budget

$57.89 required hardware subtotal · USD

QtyExact equipmentReputable sellerPrice
1WisBlock US915 starter kit, SKU 116016 — RAK19007 + RAK4631Rokland ↗$34.97
1RAKBox-B5 acrylic enclosure, PID 910010Rokland ↗$16.97
15 V / 1 A USB-A wall supply, US plugAdafruit #501 ↗$5.95

What’s included

The radio kit includes LoRa and Bluetooth PCB antennas, screws, and a USB-A to USB-C cable. The B5 is an open acrylic case for a dry desk, not a sealed travel or outdoor enclosure.

What you still need

Your compatible smartphone, setup computer with USB-A, Internet for the initial installation, and a local radio path. Basic hand tools and assembly are required; borrow a small precision screwdriver or allow $10–15 extra. No battery or GPS is included.

Optional upgrades & setup details

Optional upgrades

An optional display or a battery adds cost and assembly. Start with the supplied antennas; a different case and matching antenna fittings are needed before making this portable.

After it arrives

Install the RAK4631 Bluetooth Companion firmware. Confirm both antennas are attached to the correct sockets before power-up, then pair and configure ATW.

Delivered range allows for estimated standard shipping and sales tax. It is not a checkout quote. Existing phone/computer, tools and site work are excluded as described above.

PLAN C · PERSONAL MESSAGING

Charge it.
Take it along.

Carry a finished radio with its own battery. Your phone remains the screen and keyboard.

$105–120Estimated delivered budget

$93.77 required hardware subtotal · USD

QtyExact equipmentReputable sellerPrice
1WisMesh Pocket V2, White, US915 MHz, single unitRokland ↗$84.97
1Official Raspberry Pi 15W USB-C supply, US Black, PiShop SKU 1663; 5.1 V / 3 A, attached cablePiShop US ↗$8.80

What’s included

Pocket V2 includes its case, display, GPS, 3,200 mAh rechargeable battery, LoRa antenna, Bluetooth antenna and USB data cable. The separately listed charger is included in the total.

What you still need

Your compatible smartphone and setup computer. MeshCore installation is still needed because this seller’s unit ships with Meshtastic. The separately listed supply includes its charging lead and meets the required USB power rating. If you already own a suitable 5 V USB charger rated at least 2 A, reuse it and subtract $8.80.

Optional upgrades & setup details

Optional upgrades

No antenna upgrade is required to start. Keep the included antenna while learning; a portable case is not a promise of rainproof operation. Spare batteries are not needed for first use.

After it arrives

Choose the exact WisMesh Pocket hardware target supported by the official MeshCore flasher and Bluetooth Companion role. Use your phone to message; the onboard display does not make this a standalone keyboard terminal.

Delivered range allows for estimated standard shipping and sales tax. It is not a checkout quote. Existing phone/computer, tools and site work are excluded as described above.

PLAN D · HELP RELAY MESSAGES

A place outside.
A link for others.

Help pass messages onward with a small solar-powered outdoor radio. Coordinate the site before buying.

$120–145Estimated delivered budget

$99.85 required hardware subtotal · USD

QtyExact equipmentReputable sellerPrice
1SenseCAP Solar Node P1-Pro for MeshCore, SKU 100023690; configure for ATWSeeed Studio ↗$93.90
15 V / 1 A USB-A wall supply for initial indoor chargingAdafruit #501 ↗$5.95

What’s included

The P1-Pro includes radio, enclosure, solar panel, batteries, antenna, USB cable and mounting accessories. This is the MeshCore repeater version, not the battery-free P1.

What you still need

A suitable existing mounting surface/pole, permission, sun exposure, access for maintenance, a computer for configuration, and basic tools. The budget assumes an accessible, compatible mount with no new mast, rooftop work, long cable, or professional installation. It does not include a personal companion: add Plan A, B or C if you need one to send messages.

Optional upgrades & setup details

Optional upgrades

Site-specific mounting, an engineered power system, lightning protection or professional installation require a separate quote. Any antenna change needs connector, power and installation review. These are not silently included in a $100 radio price.

After it arrives

Coordinate the location first. Configure ATW and a unique admin password, bench-test it, then arrange a safe installation. Check the manufacturer’s battery charging temperatures and winter solar limits; this is not a guaranteed year-round Wisconsin infrastructure design.

Delivered range allows for estimated standard shipping and sales tax. It is not a checkout quote. Existing phone/computer, tools and site work are excluded as described above.

A BIGGER COMMITMENT

Community infrastructure
deserves a complete plan.

A small solar kit is not a promise of year-round Wisconsin service. Long-term sites need safe mounting, reliable power, maintenance and a site-specific budget. Equipment can cost several hundred dollars before installation.

Explore hosting or sponsorship →

BEYOND THE STARTER KIT

Mounting & permission.

Winter power.

Maintenance & access.

A complete site budget.